Automating the Process

 

Any computational tool that can calculate a number in terms of previous values can be used to obtain values for Y(x). The spreadsheet file SQWELL.XLS is one example. It allows you to change the value of Dx and determine how the solution changes.

 

Manipulate the variables in SQWELL.XLS and describe how Y(x) is affected by

• the depth of the potential energy;
• the value of Dx, and
• the value of E.

 

In creating numerical solutions we must give the computer a place to start. In our program we used our general knowledge of functions to use

Y(0) = 0 for antisymmetric solutions
Y(0) = 1 for symmetric solutions.